BEST DOWNTOWN BEHIND-THE-SCENES MAKER (2007)

Cindy Gentry

Cindy Gentry's a mover and shaker, but only in the best use of the term  no bone-crushing handshakes or slaps on the back from this lady. Two years ago, Gentry started the Downtown Phoenix Public Market, which turned an empty lot near First Street and McKinley into a bustling Farmers Market. Thanks to her tireless efforts, Saturday-morning shoppers find a variety of locally sourced items  root beer, olive oil, flowers, and handcrafted goods  while stocking up on locally raised produce. Later this year, the Downtown Public Market moves into a permanent structure, adjacent to its current location, and will be open six days a week. For that, we'll gladly shake her hand.